Safety, security, and stability are essential foundations for lasting peace in the world—especially in Asia, the largest and most diverse continent. The development of this vast region, along with strong intraregional commercial ties, depends heavily on regional stability. Geopolitical dynamics, particularly in Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East, significantly influence this process.
Great literary minds such as Leo Tolstoy, Muhammad Iqbal, Mirza Tursunzoda, and Faiz Ahmad Faiz deeply understood the values of human safety and eloquently emphasized the strategic importance of this region in their works. Leo Tolstoy, one of the most influential authors in history, famously wrote War and Peace, a literary masterpiece renowned for its breadth and philosophical depth.
Historically, Central Asia—especially Tajikistan—has been home to a rich culture grounded in human affection, hospitality, courage, and eloquence. Legendary figures like Abu Abdullah Rudaki, Ferdowsi, Saadi Shirazi, Hafiz, Rumi, Abdurahman Jami, Sadriddin Aini, and Mirza Tursunzoda are revered worldwide for their wisdom and humanitarian values.
Tursunzoda’s poetry and prose promote peace and harmony, extinguish the flames of conflict, and call for unity and friendship. These values led to his selection as Chairman of the Solidarity Committee of Asian and African Countries, as well as the Republican Peace Defense Committee. His work continues to inspire prosperity and mutual understanding.
Only through peace can nations truly thrive. Like other advocates of harmony, Tursunzoda dedicated his life to promoting freedom, prosperity, and mutual respect. His literary contributions stand as powerful tools of cultural diplomacy, uniting diverse communities across the globe. His influence has extended to notable contemporary writers such as Bobojon Ghafurov, Loiq Sherali, Bozor Sobir, Farzona, and Gulrukhsor.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Central Asian nations, including Tajikistan, gained independence and joined the international community as sovereign states. One of Tajikistan’s greatest achievements is the restoration of national unity and peace—foundations upon which the country has built ongoing progress. The Peace Accord signed in Moscow on June 27, 1997, laid the groundwork for national reconciliation and unity.
President Emomali Rahmon played a pivotal role during this historical period, declaring: “I will bring peace and plant prosperity in the hearts of every citizen.” Under his leadership, Tajikistan has fostered a culture of peace, patriotism, and national identity.
The peace process was supported by the United Nations and key regional guarantors such as Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. The peace accord remains a rare and exemplary historical achievement, recognized by the international community, including the UN.
Today, Tajikistan’s national unity ensures stability, progress, and a peaceful life. Unity is the cornerstone of development, stability, self-awareness, and a brighter future. The anniversary of national unity is celebrated annually, symbolizing the flourishing of prosperity, dignity, and self-respect.
Tajikistan, known historically as part of “Movarounnahr” or “Transoxiana,” is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty and abundant resources—including clean air, majestic mountains, and plentiful water. The leadership of Tajikistan has actively worked to manage these resources wisely, addressing environmental and humanitarian concerns on a global scale.
Tajikistan has become a leading voice in global water and climate diplomacy. It founded the UN “Group of Friends of Water” in 2009 and the “Group of Friends of Glaciers” in 2023. Through these efforts, it has initiated global forums such as “Clean Water,” “Water for Life,” and “Water for Sustainable Development” (2018–2028), reinforcing its role as a responsible international actor.
Under its “school of peace,” Tajikistan continues to develop politically, socially, and economically. During his speech at the UN Future Summit on September 23, 2024, President Rahmon proposed a landmark initiative—the “Decade of Peacebuilding for Future Generations.”
On March 12–13, 2025, President Rahmon signed a historic peace and friendship treaty with Kyrgyzstan, laying a foundation for long-term regional security. Soon after, in April, the first official “Central Asia–European Union” summit took place in Samarkand, showcasing deepening cooperation across sectors like green energy, transport, agriculture, digitalization, and tourism.
This spirit of cooperation is captured in a poem dedicated to peace between Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan:
Sulhu dustivi hamjawori safa awarad,
Jangu dushmanivu judai bala awarad.
Bibayad hama bahri sulhi khalqi jahon,
Girifta sabaq zi sulhi tajiku ghirghizu uzbekon
Peace, friendship, and neighborliness bring prosperity,
War, enmity, and separation bring disaster.
Everyone should work for global peace,
Learning from the unity of Tajiks, Kyrgyz, and Uzbeks.
Major projects such as CASA-1000 and TAPI—linking Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, and India—serve as symbols of regional cooperation, prosperity, and mutual benefit.
Yet, challenges persist. Geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty, and climate change threaten nations across Asia and Europe. The Samarkand Summit prioritized security and development in Central Asia, underscoring the need for global cooperation.
Tajikistan, with its open-door policy and strong relationships—including with neighboring Afghanistan, the EU, and global partners—advocates for inclusive governance, sustainable development, and shared prosperity.
The integration of Central Asia, South and Southeast Asia, and the Middle East with major world economies offers a powerful path forward. By implementing green energy policies, protecting the environment, and promoting investments, these regions can thrive under the banner of peace and cooperation.
Tajikistan’s ongoing contributions to peace and diplomacy include support for recent reconciliation between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as warming relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Tajikistan stands ready to help prevent future hostilities through its “School of Peace and Unity.”
The PEACE Formula – A Framework for Regional Development:
Promotion – Advocate for peace and build progressive societies
Economization – Use resources wisely and sustainably
Activation – Implement programs and initiatives effectively
Cooperation – Foster collaboration across borders
Elimination – Address and remove public threats and risks
Using this formula, countries can jointly build a foundation for a better future. Tajikistan, with its rich cultural heritage and strong international presence, can guide the region toward sustainable peace and development.
In conclusion, Tajikistan is emerging as a unique peace-producer on the global stage. Its cultural diplomacy and visionary leadership continue to promote peace, prosperity, and sustainable economic growth. Initiatives like the “Decade of Strengthening Peace for Future Generations” aim to inspire and unify global communities toward a more secure, stable, and prosperous world.
Mirsaid Rahmonov
Mirsaid Rahmonov is a Senior Research Analyst at the Institute of Asian and European Studies, Tajikistan.
